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New law simplifies gender identity on birth certificate

Change no longer requires court order to affirm new non-binary gender identities.

People born in Oregon will now have an easier process of affirming their gender identity on birth certificates thanks to a new law that went into effect on Jan. 1.

Oregon House Bill 2673 allows anyone to request a name change or sex designation change on a birth certificate to accurately reflect their identity. Prior to the bill's passage, a court order indicating that an individual had completed sexual reassignment was required to change the designation on a birth certificate. Now all that is needed is a notarized application.

"HB 2673 ensures any individual can request a name change and sex designation change on a birth certificate that accurately reflects their gender identity," said Jennifer Woodward, state registrar and manager of the Vital Records office.

The name or sex changes can be requested by anyone 18 or older, by an emancipated minor, a parent or legal guardian if the registrant is a minor, or a legal representative of the registrant. People who previously changed their name but have not changed their sex on their birth certificate can do so using this new process.

Those choosing to change their sex to non-binary will be able to add "X" rather than "M" for male or "F" for female.

Amending a birth certificate requires a $35 fee — though that doesn't include the cost for the certificate itself, which is $25 for the short-form and $30 for the long-form. New birth records will be provided within seven to 10 working days after being ordered.

Application can be submitted by mail or in person at 800 N.E. Oregon St., Suite 225, Portland, OR 97232. Visit www.healthoregon.org/hb2673 for all the forms and frequently asked questions.